The Queensland great believes a refreshed Thurston will come back bigger and better in his 17th NRL campaign after an eight-month shoulder injury lay-off.

Civoniceva joined the tributes for Cowboys co-captain Thurston and Melbourne skipper Cameron Smith ahead of their testimonial - North Queensland's NRL trial match against the Storm at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.

"They will be spoken of as our greatest ever to play the game," Civoniceva told AAP before the grand final rematch.

"It's their champion qualities, their willingness to work hard, to lead by example, their tenacity and consistency - every time you know what they are going to produce.

"To have that consistency throughout their careers is remarkable."

The former Maroons enforcer admitted it was sad to think it was the beginning of the end for four-time Dally M Medallist Thurston's NRL career.

Thurston retired from representative football last year.

"It is going to be sad when he says goodbye after all that he has done for the sport especially the Queensland jersey," Civoniceva said.

"He will be greatly missed but in saying that there comes a time we have to say goodbye to our champions."

Civoniceva expects Thurston to go out with a bang after returning from shoulder surgery.

The testimonial marks the 34-year-old's second game back from injury after breaking down in Queensland's State of Origin game two win in June.

"While no one wants an injury I think it was an opportunity for Johnathan to refresh and refocus before his last season," Civoniceva said.

"I am looking forward to seeing what Thurston can bring in 2018."

Australian Associated Press